While being investigated, Stokes had moved to High Wycombe and police found three dogs in the boot of his car.

At Aylesbury Crown Court, a judge jailed him for an additional 27 months.

Stokes, previously of Coldharbour Lane, Hayes, was initially jailed for three years and disqualified from keeping dogs for life after admitting conspiracy to commit fraud and one animal welfare offence at Isleworth Crown Court.

His jail term was later increased to four years and eight months after the gang's case was reviewed for "unduly lenient" sentences in July.

Stokes has now admitted a further count of fraud by false representation and two animal welfare offences.

His sentence was extended by 27 months, taking his total sentence to six years and 11 months.

Speaking after the latest sentencing, RSPCA inspector Kirsty Withnall said: "It goes to show how much money there is to be made in this trade that people will take the risk and continue selling, despite being investigated.

"Sadly though it's the animals who pay the price when these dealers fail to put their health and welfare first."

Image copyrightRSPCAImage caption
A search of Stokes' address found he was still selling puppies while being investigated by police